56. Telegram From the Department of State to the Embassy in Jordan1
904. Please immediately inform King that we highly gratified at his recent public action in pointing out Communist menace.2 We strongly share his view that Communist imperialism poses primary threat to sound development of Arab nationalism and to independence and integrity Arab states. Forthrightness which King has brought to bear on problem should have constructive effect in Jordan and elsewhere. King’s remarks reflect determination preserve independence of Jordan, strengthening of which has been purpose of aid rendered by US. US looks forward to discussions between Jordan Government and Richards mission within framework President’s proposals, assuming favorable Congressional action.
- Source: Department of State, Central Files, 685.86/2–657. Confidential; Priority. Drafted by Bergus and Rockwell and approved by Rountree who signed for Dulles. Repeated to Baghdad, Beirut, Cairo, Damascus, Jidda, and Tel Aviv.↩
- Reference is to a public directive which King Hussein sent to Prime Minister Nabulsi on February 2 pointing out the danger to Arab nationalism posed by communism and urging the Jordanian Government to guard against Communist activity. Telegram 875 from Amman, February 4, commented that the King’s action was the most important Jordanian political event in the last few months, that it “publically established his opposition to Communism and to alignment with the Eastern Camp”, and that in view of “rapidly expanded Egyptian-Syrian-Communist influence here King’s action involves him in critical battle with leftist elements which could result in loss of throne.” (Ibid., 785.00/2–457) Telegram 894 from Amman, February 6, reported a conversation along the lines of Mallory’s instructions in this telegram. (Ibid., 685.00/2–657)↩